Yesterday I mused about dads and how it might be nice to surprise them with something really special this year for Father’s Day instead of getting them yet another tie. 😉 Well, today I will give you some ideas of what kind of fun you can have this weekend (and every summer/fall weekend) in Big Bear Lake. You will be amazed at how many different things to do there are in our little slice of heaven!

Don’t forget to check out our cabins at RSVacations.net! Rates are still at the off-season level (plus we still have specials!!), so there is no better time to treat Dad to a fun, mountain getaway!

Lake Activities

Fishing – He can bring gear to fish on his own, or you can treat him to a day with an expert fishing guide. Either way, he can grill up some fresh fish for dinner after a relaxing day of fishing!Fish Big Bear

Boating – Pontoons, Fishing Boats, and Performance Boats – our local marinas have you covered for a day of fun out on the lake!Big Bear Marina

Wakeboarding/Waterskiing/Tubing – Ready to get wet? No problem! Dad (and the rest of the family) will have a blast in the water!Designated Wakesports

Canoeing/Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding – If he likes to have fun and get a workout at the same time, there are plenty of places to rent these types of equipment.Captain John’s Fawn Harbor

Parasailing – Perhaps Dad is an adrenaline junkie? Flying above the lake is sure to get his blood pumping!Pine Knot Parasail

Jet-Skis/Wave-Runners – Everyone loves personal watercraft! Spend a few hours exploring the lake and have tons of fun, as well!North Shore Landing

Forest Activities

Sky Chair – The Sky Chair takes the work out of forest fun! Take a relaxing ride up the mountain, grab some lunch at the top, then hike, bike, or ride the chair back down.Sky Chair at Snow Summit Resort

Mountain Biking – Big Bear has miles of trails, including fire roads and single-track. We also have the Snow Summit Bike Park which offers a variety of terrain for all levels of dads!Snow Summit Bike Park

Hiking – If Dad is a nature lover, a mountain hike is just the thing! Explore the forest and see all types of wildlife and vegetation.Big Bear Discovery Center

Zipline/Tree Climbing – Adventure-seeking dads will love a zipline or tree climbing excursion where they can fly through the forest and over rocky canyons or rope climb one of our towering pines.Action Tours

4 x 4 Off-Road Tours – Get off the beaten path and do some 4x4ing. Take an Off-Road Tour and give Dad a view of the back-country or let Dad do the driving on a self-drive tour. There are sunset tours, stargazer trips, and a few historical tours!
Big Bear Jeep ExperienceBig Bear Off-Road Adventures

Around Town Activities

Helicopter Tours – If Dad dreams of being in the air, this is the perfect way to tour the Big Bear Valley!Helicopter Big Bear

Golfing – He can enjoy the benefits of altitude on his swing and have a beautiful backdrop to play 9 holes at our local course.Bear Mountain Golf Course

Beautiful fall weather continues in Big Bear Lake this week with highs in the 60’s, lows in the 20’s – 30’s and lots of sunshine. Take advantage of these fantastic conditions to see the explosion of autumn colors all around the Valley. Some suggestions? Take a hike to Castle Rock, ride the chairlift at Snow Summit and mountain bike down miles of trails, take a 4 x 4 expedition through the back country, fly through the forest on a zip-line adventure, take a lake cruise and see the colors from below or take a helicopter tour and admire the beauty of the mountains from above. There is so much to do in Big Bear and this is one of the most enjoyable times of year to experience it!

This weekend, be sure to take part in Oktoberfest ‘Unplugged’. Check out all the details on this unique event on my Tuesday’s Topic post here. Looking for some chills and thrills? Head over to the Meadow Park Gym for the ‘Panic in the Park Haunted House’. They also have a not-so-scary house for the little ones earlier in the evening. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo has a couple of events happening: Wolf Awareness Day is on Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM and the Flashlight Safari is that same evening beginning at 6:30 PM.

Hurry and take advantage of our fall specials before they disappear October 31. Save 25% on a two night stay OR Stay two nights and get the third night FREE! Our cabins are clean, comfortable and have the amenities you want so head on over to RSVacations.net and book a Big Bear Vacation Cabin today!

Big Bear Lake has so many events happening all the time, it can be hard to keep up! On the first Tuesday of every month, we will dedicate Tuesday’s Topic to upcoming events so that you can plan ahead to join us for the fun!

The Summer Season is in full swing and it is time to start making plans for your Summer Mountain Escape! Whether you plan on joining us for Independence Day festivities, A ‘Farewell to Summer’ Labor Day Getaway or any of the spectacular weeks in between, Big Bear Lake has more activities, special events and things to do than anywhere else in Southern California! We have a Lake full of water activities, a National Forest with hundreds of miles of hiking/biking trails, Tours by Boat, 4×4, Helicopter, Segway, Kayak, or on foot, Live Concerts, Plays, Fireworks, Nightlife, The Village for shopping and dining, Fishing Tournaments, Old Miner’s Days, Film Festivals, Ropes Courses, Zipline, Art Shows, Wine Walks and SO MUCH MORE!!

If you have never joined us at 6,700′ for summertime fun, come and see what you have been missing! If you have spent time here in the summer before, come on back and see what’s new!! We have lots of sunshine, perfect temperatures and tons of fun all summer long!

Please let RS Vacations provide you with the perfect cabin for your Big Bear Escape. We offer clean, comfortable cabins with the very best amenities and we pride ourselves on EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE! You will not be disappointed! Check out our cabin selection at RSVacations.net. Please call or email us if you have any questions. Book today!

Here are the major summertime happenings:

June

Tuesday Farmers Market at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center

Jun 03, 2014 | 08:00AM – 01:30PM

Enjoy farm fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers all summer long. The Farmer’s Market also features unique arts, crafts and handmade items by local artisans. Every Tuesday from April 1st until September 23rd. For more information please visit website.

Fishing for $50K Trout Derby

Enter to catch a tagged trout worth $50,000 plus many more prizes and raffles. Prizes for the remaining 14 tagged trout caught are eligible for a cash prize of $150 per tagged trout. “Weigh in Your Trout” contest awards cash prizes for biggest trout caught in adult M/F and child M/F categories.

Stay at a Big Bear Visitors Bureau lodge and pay only a $15 entry fee per person (based on lodging occupancy). Rent a pontoon boat at a participating marina in Big Bear Lake and receive up to four FREE entries! FREE Pautzke Fire Bait for all anglers.

An awards ceremony takes place Sunday, June 8, 2014 at 3 p.m. in the Big Bear Visitor Center parking lot located at 630 Bartlett Road (in the Village). The awards ceremony includes a general raffle with thousands of dollars worth of fishing gear, bait and tackle from national manufacturers.

To register for Fishin’ for $50K or to book your lodging or pontoon, log onto www.bigbear.com or call (800) 424-4232.

Intro to Geocaching at the Big Bear Discovery Center

Jun 07, 2014 | 09:00AM – 10:30AM

Learn how to get involved in the world wide scavenger hunt known as geocaching. You will learn how to navigate online to find caches, how to use a GPS unit to locate caches, and learn about environmental ethics associated with the sport.

Gold Panning at Big Bear Discovery Center

Jun 07, 2014 | 10:00AM – 12:00PM

Short description about event: Come learn how to pan for gold! Children will lean the process of gold panning using real panning equipment. The “gold” is pyrite, and children can take home their findings along with an informational handout and certificate!

Summer Wine Walk in the Village

Jun 07, 2014 | 03:30PM – 07:00PM

The Village Business Association (VBA) of Big Bear Lake hosts its annual Summer Wine Walk on Saturday, June 7, 2014 from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm in the downtown Big Bear Lake Village shopping district. The merchant organized event will showcase fine wines from around the world and the Village’s unique businesses, with a portion of the proceeds to be donated to Big Bear Valley Education Trust, Christmas in the Village and numerous other events for the community.

The Wine Walk is a creative social event that combines shopping with food and wine tasting as attendees walk from merchant to merchant. The VBA Wine Walk is a growing social and economically stimulating event, which showcases the Village as a shopping destination to visitors and locals alike.

Presale tickets for the Village Summer Wine Walk cost $30 if purchased before May 27th and will be $40 after the 27th, if any are available. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bigbearlakevillage.com or www.bigbear.com and at The UPS Store.

The Wine Walk will begin at 3:30 and end at 7:00 p.m., shortly followed by a raffle prize drawing for event attendees.

Wine Walk participants must be at least 21 years old. Ticketholders receive a map of participating businesses, a commemorative wine glass, 12 wine tasting tickets and a wristband at check-in. Guest check-in will begin at 2:30 p.m. on the corner of Pine Knot Avenue and Village Drive and across from the Bartlett Street parking lot.

Location: The Village of Big Bear Lake at corner of Pine Knot & Village Dr.

Comedy Night at the Cave

Jun 07, 2014 | 06:00PM – 11:30PM

Join us for a night of laughter as The Cave presents comedians Derrik Murry, Jodi Miller, Josh Nasar, Karmel Humphries and Sam Ridley.

The Cave is a new, intimate music venue with state of the art sound and lighting that promises to bring you up close and personal with its performers. Doors open at 6pm Concert starts at 8pm. Call or visit website for ticket information.

18th Annual Holcomb Valley Trail Run

Jun 08, 2014 | 07:00AM – 03:00PM

Starting at the water’s edge of Big Bear Lake, the Holcomb Valley Trail Run brings runners deep into the heart of the most scenic area in Big Bear, Holcomb Valley. Breathtaking views of the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area, Big Bear Lake, and the surrounding valley can be seen from the miles of single track running along the Pacific Crest Trail. The Holcomb Valley Trail Run offers three separate distances: a 33-mile race, a 15-mile race, and a 7-mile race. Sections of the Pacific Crest Trail are part of each race course. This is some of the best trail running in Southern California; so sign up early, the race has sold out the past 4 years.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo Photography Contest

Jun 14, 2014 | 10:00AM – 04:00PM

The editors of the Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo 2015 Calendar invite all photographers to enter the 2014 Calendar Contest. Entries will be professionally judged on technical quality, originality, and artistic merit. You may enter a total of 10 images taken in the Big Bear Alpine Zoo any time between January 1, 2014 and July 30, 2014. June 14 will be a special photo op of the animals, though participants do not need to be present that day to enter. There will be 4 photography groups: Professional, Intermediate, Amateur and Youth (under 18 years).

Build a Birdhouse at the Big Bear Discovery Center

Jun 14, 2014 | 10:00AM – 12:00PM

Bluebirds will love your yard with this well designed birdhouse that you can build! We will provide kits for individuals or families to build together during this 2-hour program sponsored by Butcher’s Block. Class limited to 20 people, first come first served.

Old Miners Big Bear Heritage Parade

Jun 14, 2014 | 11:00AM – 12:00PM

The Big Bear parade is the longest running community event in the Valley and has brought residents and visitors together to celebrate the heritage of the Big Bear Valley and honor members of our community and the Nation’s military. This year, Old Miners and the Village Business Association bring this traditional event back to the Village, the Heart of Big Bear.

The 2014 theme “From Wagon Wheels to Smart Automobiles – Paving the Way to a Sustainable Future” honors the history of the Valley and creates a forum for the community to express its vision for a sustainable future.

C.A.T.S. Presents “Wizard of Oz” at the PAC

Jun 20, 2014 | 07:30PM – 08:30PM

C.A.T.S. (The Community Arts Theater Society) brings their summer musical, The Wizard of OZ to the Big Bear Performing Arts Center for 12 performances: June 20, 21, 25, 27, 28, 30, July 2, 3, & 5 at 7:30 p.m. and matinee performances on June 22, 29 and July 6 at 1:30 p.m. The classic movie The Wizard of OZ is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. With music and script based on the movie, and featuring all the familiar characters, it’s sure to be a family favorite! The Oscar winning musical score features such wonderful songs as Over the Rainbow, Follow the Yellow Bring Road and Ding Dong the Witch is Dead.

Admission: Adults $17-$29; Seniors $16-$27; Children (under 18) $11-$20
Tickets for all events will be available through the C.A.T.S. web site at www.bigbeartheater.org. Tickets can also be purchased through the PAC Box Office at 909-866-4970.

Aaron’s Big Bear Bass Tournament Championship Series

Jun 21, 2014

Aaron’s Big Bear Big Bass Tournaments, Big Bear Charter Fishing and Big Bear Cool Cabins are hosting 8 bass tournaments on Big Bear Lake this year. Championship Series events are on April 12, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16 and September 27-28. This Year two new events will be the Spring Bass on April 1st and the Fall Bass Blast on October 18th ( not part of Championship series)For tournament details please visit the website or call.

11th Annual Carp Round-Up at Big Bear Municipal Water District

Jun 21 & 22, 2014 | 07:00AM – 04:00PM

This two-day event is held once a year. Two-person teams participate to catch as many carp as possible with either a pole or a bow to win cash. Prizes awarded in multiple categories including: 1st-3rd place shoreline team, 1st-3rd place boating team, biggest and smallest fish and more. Enter a raffle to win a custom hunting bow.

2nd Annual Big Bear Triathlon at Pine Knot Landing

Jun 28, 2014 | 07:30AM – 03:00PM

The Big Bear Triathlon is back for our Sophomore year!! Join us in the scenic San Bernardino National Forest and challenge your triathlon skills at 7,000′. We will be hosting two distances for this event, Sprint and Olympic. While the rest of Southern California is heating up we are just getting perfect with an average June temperature of 76 degrees. Get ready for your season with this high altitude event and enjoy all that the Big Bear Valley has to offer.

Olympic Triathlon to start at 7:30 AM and Sprint Triathlon at 8:00 AM. Registration pickup and athlete check-in will begin on Friday June 27th at 1PM.

Martha Davis and the Motels at the Cave

Her voice is unique, unmistakable and timeless – The Los Angeles Times’ Robert Hilburn called her “arguably the most charismatic female performer in rock.”

And about the Hollywood Bowl concert just a few months ago, The Hollywood Reporter wrote: Martha Davis, of the Motels, was still strong in voice and admirably delivered hits like “Only The Lonely” and “Suddenly Last Summer.”

The Cave is a new, intimate music venue in Big Bear that promises to bring you up close and personal with its performers. Doors open at 6pm Concert starts at 8pm. Call or visit website for ticket information.

2014 Music in the Mountains presents: The Long Run, Experience the Eagles
and Co-Headliners Kenny Cetera’s Chicago Experience

“World’s Greatest Tribute Bands” concerts are fund raisers for Discovery Center programming. Help contribute to sustaining visitor services, youth education and forest restoration on the mountains we love! All our tribute shows have been seen on national AXS TV and proudly voted by their fans as “World’s Greatest!”

The first in the series are co-headliners, The Long Run, Experience The Eagles and Kenny Cetera’s Chicago Experience. The Big Bear Discovery Center is one of Southern California’s favorite concert venues. Enjoy an intimate, casual and fun outdoor concert experience at 7,000′ on the mountaintop of the San Bernardino Mountains! With your support, we’ll rock the mountains and raise money for nonprofit programming at The Discovery Center.

The Discovery Center serves over 190,000 visitors annually, educates students and youth groups in and out of the classroom, and supports our restoration and trail-building initiatives!

Palm Springs Film Festival in Big Bear: “One World” a FREE Screening of International Short Films

Jun 29, 2014 | 05:00PM – 10:00PM

The Palm Springs International Film Festival presents “One World” a FREE Screening of International Films at the Wine Room at Wolf Creek. Fine wine and drinks will be available as well as finger food.

ONE WORLD Bringing the world into focus one film at a time

Join us for ONE WORLD, an engaging program of short films that brings into focus the lives and cultures of the vastly different, yet amazingly similar people with whom we share the planet.

ONE WORLD is an interactive, eye-opening event guaranteed to get you talking. Each of these FREE presentations is followed by a lively guided discussion about the films you’ve just seen, how they reflect our shared experiences and their transformative power.

ONE WORLD is appropriate for ages 16 and up.

THERE IS ONLY ONE WORLD.Find out more about who’s sharing it with you and you may learn more about yourself.

July

C.A.T.S. Presents “Wizard of Oz” at the PAC

Jul 02, 2014 | 07:30PM – 10:00PM

C.A.T.S. (The Community Arts Theater Society) brings their summer musical, The Wizard of OZ to the Big Bear Performing Arts Center for 12 performances: June 20, 21, 25, 27, 28, 30, July 2, 3, & 5 at 7:30 p.m. and matinee performances on June 22, 29 and July 6 at 1:30 p.m. The classic movie The Wizard of OZ is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. With music and script based on the movie, and featuring all the familiar characters, it’s sure to be a family favorite! The Oscar winning musical score features such wonderful songs as Over the Rainbow, Follow the Yellow Bring Road and Ding Dong the Witch is Dead.

Admission: Adults $17-$29; Seniors $16-$27; Children (under 18) $11-$20Tickets for all events will be available through the C.A.T.S. web site at www.bigbeartheater.org. Tickets can also be purchased through the PAC Box Office at 909-866-4970.

The 28th Annual Big Bear Lake Independence Day Festival and Craft Show

Jul 04, 2014 | 10:00AM – 05:00PM

The 28th Annual Big Bear Lake Independence Day Festival and Craft Show with Unique One-of-a-Kind Items, Family Fun Activities, Live Entertainment, Patio Dining, and Wyatt’s serving Full Menu & Full Service Bar. For more info please visit website or call.

Big Bear Lake Summer Artwalk Festival

Jul 04, 2014 | 10:00AM – 06:00PM

The Big Bear Summer Artwalk takes place July 4-6 in the heart of the Big Bear Village.

Each year in July since 2004, the Artwalk Festival showcases exhibits by regional and local artists selling their works in Oils, Acrylics, Mixed Media, Photography, Ceramics, Glass, Wood, Metal and Jewelry.

The City of Big Bear Lake has invested nearly 5 Million Dollars over the past couple of years in new sidewalks, landscape and lighting improvements for the Village Shopping, Dining & Entertainment District.

The newly renovated Village and the new Bartlett Events Center will be ready for this year’s Events starting in July with the 2014 Big Bear Lake Artwalk Festival! Make plans to experience the Artwalk Festival, meet the Artists and enjoy the day supporting the Arts in Beautiful Big Bear Lake, SoCal’s Leisure Travel and Getaway Destination!

Location: Bartlett Events Area in The Village of Big Bear Lake at 630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Annual Rotary Club Big Bear Lake Fourth Of July BBQ

Jul 04, 2014 | 04:30PM – 07:30PM

The Annual Rotary Club Big Bear Lake Fourth of July Lakefront Fireworks and Barbeque at the Marina Resort on Big Bear Blvd. Reserved Seating and Meals with Live Entertainment and Kids Games before the Fireworks Start. Fireworks begin between 8:45-9:15pm.

Fourth of July Cruise on Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Boat

Jul 04, 2014 | 08:00PM – 10:00PM

Cruise launches at 8 p.m. and returns approximately at 10 p.m. Cruise includes a non-alcoholic drink ticket, light hors d’oeuvres. Beer, wine, soft drinks and assorted snacks available for purchase in the cash only galley. Admission: Adults $80; Children (12 and under) $40. For more information and reservations call the Pine Knot Marina office during business hours.

Big Bear 4th of July Fireworks Show

Jul 04, 2014 | 08:45PM – 10:00PM

Come attend the biggest 4th of July fireworks display in Southern California. The fireworks are shot off from a barge on the Lake directly off of Pine Knot Landing. Fireworks begin between 8:45-9:15pm. Viewable from any of our public parks or the best spot, from a boat on the Lake. Make sure to bring a jacket or blanket because it can get cold.

Location: Big Bear Lake at Pine Knot Landing

Contact: Tel:(909) 866-4607

73rd Annual Big Bear Women’s Club Flower Show

Jul 11, 2014 | 10:15AM – 05:00PM

The 73rd Big Bear Women’s Club Flower Show at The Performing Arts Center.

This year’s them is “A Garden Party.”

Judging is on Friday from 10:15 AM to Noon.

Open to the public Noon to 5:00 PM on Friday and 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Saturday.

The 7th Annual Big Bear PaddleFest

Jul 12, 2014 | 07:00AM – 04:30PM

The 7th Annual Big Bear PaddleFest at Swim Beach at Meadow Park on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake.

Big Bear PaddleFest is a Festival of Races for Kayaks, Canoes, and Stand Up Paddleboards on Big Bear Lake, hosted by North Shore Trading Company. Spectators can demo kayaks and SUPs as well as visit the festival site which will have music, food, sports vendors and much more.

Big Bear Old Miners Association Chili Cook Off in the Village

Jul 12, 2014 | 10:00AM – 08:00PM

The 2014 Big Bear Old Miners Association International Chili Society Sanctioned Chili Cook Off at the Bartlett Events Area in the Village. Both local and visiting contestants vie for cash prizes and awards, including the coveted opportunity to advance to the World Championships. No Admission Charge.Tasting Kits are $5. With Live Music, Food and Drink, Vendors, Contests, Kids Activities and Lots of Chili! Please call or visit website for more details

Location: Bartlett Lot in The Village of Big Bear Lake at 630 Bartlett Rd.

Old Time Bear Country Fair at Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Jul 12, 2014 | 10:00AM – 03:00PM

It is a family affair at this year’s annual Bear Country Fair held at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, where there is something for everyone including an animal feeding tour following the fair activities. Enjoy country fair activities for the whole family. Includes face painting, jewelry making, bear toss, and bear roaring contest. Also pie eating contest between our 3 black bears–who eats their pie the fastest? Call (909)878-4200 for more information or visit our website.

Old Miners 4th Annual Outhouse Races in the Village

Jul 12, 2014 | 01:00PM – 04:00PM

Big Bear Valley’s newest sport returns in the 4th Annual Old Miners’ Outhouse Race on Cottage Lane at Bartlett Lot. Times TBA. Come to the Calcutta Luncheon & Outhouse Auction during the Big Bear Chili Cookoff and bid on the fastest People-Powered-Potty in the West! The person who buys the winning race team splits the pot of dough with the winning team and the Old Miners’ Association. Cast your vote for the best decorated Outhouse and Team costume. Watch teams push an outhouse along a designated race track. The winning teams will receive a cash prize, a coveted trophy and a complimentary entrance fee for next year’s race. FREE for all to watch. $50 Team Entry Fee.

Location: Bartlett Events Area in The Village of Big Bear Lake at 630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

“Berlin featuring Terri Nunn” at the Cave

Jul 18, 2014 | 06:00PM – 11:00PM

“Berlin” Featuring Terri Nunn at the Cave. For fans of electronic music – and the far-reaching wave of style and pop culture that followed in the wake of the 80s – Berlin vocalist Terri Nunn is an icon. Still performing and recording more than 20 years after the release of the groundbreaking debut, Pleasure Victim, Terri and Berlin are currently touring in support of 4Play, the group’s impressive 10th release. An eclectic and ambitious album, 4Play is comprised of new material along with both electronic and alternative rock covers from a first rate selection of artists – David Bowie, Depeche Mode and industrial-Goth icon Marilyn Manson, to name a few.

The Cave is a new, intimate music venue in Big Bear that promises to bring you up close and personal with its performers. Doors open at 6pm Concert starts at 8pm. Call or visit website for ticket information.

Aaron’s Big Bear Bass Tournament Championship Series

Jul 19, 2014

Aaron’s Big Bear Big Bass Tournaments, Big Bear Charter Fishing and Big Bear Cool Cabins are hosting 8 bass tournaments on Big Bear Lake this year. Championship Series events are on April 12, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16 and September 27-28. This Year two new events will be the Spring Bass on April 1st and the Fall Bass Blast on October 18th ( not part of Championship series)For tournament details please visit the website or call.

Old Miners 2014 ends with a bang with their annual Doo Dah Parade in Fawnskin. New events this year include a Mountain Bike Ride n’ Tide Race, The Fawnskin Moose Festival and the Loggers & Miners Jubilee. Fun for all.

Doodah Parade from 10am – 11am
The Doo Dah Parade in Fawnskin, in conjunction with the 65th annual Old Miners Days celebration of Big Bear is outrageous and hilarious. After enjoying a hearty breakfast in Fawnskin, come watch one of Big Bear’s wackiest traditions. Although famous as the World’s Shortest Parade, it sure isn’t short on fun. The three blocks of “downtown” Fawnskin are lined with folks who make special trips up the mountain just to see this great spoof of a parade. FREE to spectators $10 Parade Entry

In earlier days gone by, two-person teams would race a burro from Pioneertown to the trails of Holcomb Valley during Old Miners Days. Now, Teams of two will race a single bike in a 10-mile loop beginning and ending in Fawnskin. The bike must be swapped at least twice and both riders must reach the finish-line together.FREE to Spectators, $50 Entry Fee

Loggers & Miners Jubilee 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Big Bear Moose Lodge

After the Doo Dah Parade, numerous logging and mining contests will be held including the Tomahawk Throw, Biscuit Cut, Jack & Jill Cross Cut, competition Gold Panning and Ore Mucking. Events include both single and team contest categories. FREE to Spectators, $5-$10 Entry per participant, per Contest

Masonic Lodge Big Breakfast

Jul 19, 2014 | 08:30AM – 11:00AM

Join the Friends of The Masons for and all-you-can-eat breakfast plus Saturday morning cartoons and a Big Bear History show. Masonic Child ID Program will be available free during breakfast. The menu includes eggs, sausage, bacon, pancakes, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, coffee, orange juice and all the trimmings.

Admission: Adults – $6; Children under 12 – $3

Special thanks to Grizzly Manor Café for donating all the food. So treat yourself and your family, and assist the Masonic Lodge in its fund raising efforts. Other dates for the Big Breakfasts are July 19 August 16 and September 20.

The 12th Annual Xeriscape Garden Tour

Jul 19, 2014 | 09:00AM – 04:00PM

The 12th annual Xeriscape Garden Tour sponsored by the Sierra Club Big Bear group is set to take place on Saturday, July 19th. Participants can begin the FREE self-guided tour anytime between 9 am and noon starting at Eminger’s Mountain Nursery, located at 41223 Big Bear Blvd. in Big Bear Lake, across the street from the Denny’s Restaurant. Once registered, participants will have until 4:00 pm to complete the driving tour of the homes in Big Bear Valley.

A tour booklet, which includes the locations of the 8 stops, a map and helpful information on gardening in the mountains, will be handed out at the starting location. Experts will be on hand at each of the homes on the tour to explain the ins and outs of creating a beautiful landscape and conserving water at the same time. Several of the tour sponsors will be on hand at the Eminger’s starting location to answer questions about topics such as composting, tree care and artificial turf. Drought-tolerant plants will be on sale at Eminger’s throughout the day.

Once again the tour will feature a special FireWise home where the homeowner married defensible space with drought tolerant and native plants. Attendees will be able to pick up information on which native plants should be planted within 15 feet of the home and which should be planted outside a 15 foot circle. You CAN have a beautiful, natural yard and be FireWise, too.

Native plants will also be on sale mid-way through the tour at Hunters Nursery with native plant expert, Orchid Black on hand to answer your questions. For additional information on the Sierra Club’s Xeriscape Garden Tour contact Christie Walker at 909-547-2237.

To see pictures of last year’s gardens, go online to: www.sierraclubbigbeargroup.org and scroll down to the bottom where you will find links to several digital photo albums of past tours.

he 20k allows intermediate riders to take the Snow Summit Sky Chair to the ridgeline to begin their ride, while other rides begin in the Village and may include 3,500 to as much as 10,000 feet of climbing.

The Big Bear Grizzly 100 is a National Ultra Endurance Race series event. Professional mountain bike racers from all over the United States and other countries will compete for points and prizes in this national series.

Please call or visit website for more details

Location: Starts and Finishes in the Village at Pine Knot Blvd and Village Drive

“Spirits of the West” Brewfest at the Big Bear Convention Center

Jul 26, 2014 | 11:00AM – 05:00PM

Big Bear Valley celebrates the 10th Annual “National Day of the Cowboy” with “Spirits of the West” Brewsfest.

The Brewsfest is a family event. Enjoy live music all day and an evening concert with the Doo Wah Riders performing. Family activities will go on all day with games, contests and over 40 different brews & spirits to taste. There are tastings for kids too with root beer, sarsaparilla and birch beer.

Beyond

5th Annual Tour de Big Bear

Aug 02, 2014 | 08:00AM – 04:00PM

Held in the high country of Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains, riders of all levels escape the summer heat and cruise alpine roadways, over high mountain passes like Onyx Summit (elevation of 8,443 feet), and around Big Bear and Baldwin Lakes. Each Tour distance includes portions of the 2010, 2012 AMGEN Tour of California. Stages Phil Liggett named “one of the best cycling stages we’ve seen in America, ever!”

For more information, including registration details, course maps and discounted lodging, or to register for the event, please visit website.

13th Annual Big Bear Renaissance Faire

Aug 02, 2014 | 10:00AM – 06:00PM

The 13th annual Big Bear Valley Renaissance Faire takes place August 2-3, 9-10, 16-17 in beautiful downtown Fawnskin. Our Faire is a continual day of mirth and merriment, excitement and education. The village streets lead you past crafts, costumes, food, stages, and games. The Enchanted Shire has six stages of ongoing shows performing every half-hour. There is also an arena for the jousts and the Great Square for pirate battles, maypole dances, and other fun! For more details please visit website.

Antique Car Club Fun Run

Aug 9-11, 2014 | 09:00AM – 04:00PM

The Antique Car Club’s Fun Run takes place Friday August 8th through Sunday August 10th. The Fun Run features a car show with 500+ cars – roadsters, classics, antiques and hot rods, lining the streets of Big Bear Village. Friday is registration day from 9-5 pm for participants at the Bartlett Parking Lot, Saturday is the day to view the cars on display from 9-4 pm and the Fun Run drive around the Lake takes place at 4pm at the end of day on Saturday, and the awards ceremonies are on Sunday starting at 9:00 am.

The 15th Annual “Art on The Lake”

Aug 15, 2014 | 10:00AM – 05:00PM

The Arts Council of Big Bear Valley presents its 15th Annual Fine Arts Festival: “Art on the Lake” which kicks off Friday evening with an opening night reception set to take place from 7 pm to 9 pm. Saturday and Sunday hours will be 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and admission is FREE.

40+ artists from around the region will be exhibiting their work for sale as well as Live Music, Beer and Wine Garden and Food Vendors. The Arts Council strives to bring nothing but exceptional photographers, painters, jewelers, and sculptors to this annual event.

Please call or visit website for more details.

Location: Bartlett Events Area in The Village of Big Bear Lake at 630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Big Bear Adventure Weekend 2014

Aug 21, 2014

The Big Bear Adventure Weekend 2014 is a unique event unlike any other, bringing together thousands of men from all over the world to take advantage of the activities and natural beauty of Big Bear Lake, California. 2014 marks the 6th Anniversary of BBAW. More details to be announced. In the meantime please visit website.

Location: Northwoods Resort at 40650 Village Drive and Various Locations throughout the Valley

Big Bear Yoga Festival at Camp Oakes

Aug 22, 2014 – Aug 24, 2014

The Big Bear Yoga Festival will take place at Camp Oakes on August 22, 23 and 24. Festival was created to bring you incredible yoga teachers, dance, vibrant music, inspirational topics, yummy food and fun activities like a climbing wall and pool – all with the beautiful backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains. Come join us – it will be a weekend to remember! We want to extend a special invitation to anyone new to yoga, and to encourage and welcome you to join us. We have a special “Beginners Track” just for you. It offers an introduction to yoga, meditation, music and more. Know that you will be welcome, and we understand how it is to try new things – all of your teachers and fellow students are here to support and encourage you! For more details please visit website.

7th Annual 1st Lt. Jared M. Landaker Memorial Run for Freedom

Aug 23, 2014 | 07:30AM – 02:30PM

5K and 10K and 15K Race and a 1 mile Family Fun Run/Walk on the Northshore of Big Bear Lake honoring 1st Lt. Jared M. Landaker. Please join us to celebrate the lives of our heroes and enjoy a beautiful weekend in the mountains. Activities for the children, food, music and vendors. Starts and finishes at Meadow Edge Picnic Area on Northshore. Registration opens at 7:30 am. The 15K starts at 9:15am; the 10K starts at 9:20 am; the 5k starts at 9:25 am. The 1 mile Family event will start at 9:30 am.

Endure The Bear Trail Run

Sep 06, 2014 | 07:00AM – 04:00PM

The Endure the Bear Mountain Trail Run starts in the Village and heads into the Pristine National Forest Trails on the South Shore of Big Bear Lake. Features routes of 50K, 30K and 15K as well as a 5k Family Fun Run & Walk. Schedule as follows. Please visit website or call for more details.

Location: Starts and Finished in the Village at Pine Knot Blvd and Village Drive

44th Annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Sep 13, 2014 | 12:00PM – 11:30PM

The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest runs for seven consecutive weekends, September 13 through October 25 at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, located at 42900 Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake. The times are Saturdays 12 noon to 12 midnight and Sundays 12 noon to 5:30 p.m. Special Locals Night on Friday October 3rd and new this year Oktoberfest Unplugged on Friday October 10th and 17th.

The Big Bear Lake International Film Festival

Sep 19, 2014 | 10:00AM – 11:30PM

The 2014 Big Bear Lake International Film Festival takes place September 19-21. Film screenings and workshops will be held at the PAC, Northwoods Resort, and the Village Theaters Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Schedule will be released later in the year.

Autumn Wine Walk in the Village

Sep 20, 2014 | 03:30PM – 07:00PM

The Village Business Association presents their annual Autumn Wine Walk on Saturday, September 20th.

Stroll the Village boutiques and shops while sampling fine wines and light hors d’oeuvres. $30 per person (Pre-sale) • $35 per person (Day of the Event if Available) Purchase tickets at Hunter Halls, UPS Store, Copper Q, Room-to-Room, Home Warehouse Design Center, and Shirt Shanty in the Village. Check-in to get wristbands starts at 3 pm Saturday at the Xmas Tree Lot (corner of Pine Knot and Village Drive). For more information, please call or visit website.

Location: The Village of Big Bear Lake at corner of Pine Knot Ave and Village Dr.

North Shore Half Marathon Course
The 13.1 mile half marathon course will be an out and back course. The course is relatively flat with only 444 feet of elevation gain. Starting at the corner on Business Center Dr., runners will head east over Stanfield Cut-off before heading west toward Big Bear Dam on the scenic highway, through the National Forest, and the mountain hamlet of Fawnskin, past the bald eagle sanctuary, to the turn around point adjacent to Big Bear Lake.

5K / 10 K Course
Both courses are out and back courses and are relatively flat. The 5K course has 125 feet of elevation gain and the 10K course has 255 feet of elevation gain.

Memorial Day, the official start of summer in Big Bear Lake, is just around the corner. Along with the dozens of activities that take place all summer long – in The Village, on the Lake, in the National Forest and all around the Valley – there are several special events going on this weekend as well. Come on up and see what summertime in Big Bear is all about. Check out the details below.

If you haven’t booked a cabin yet, don’t worry! RS Vacations has homes available in all sizes and at special last minute prices. Visit our website and book that Big Bear Cabin for Memorial Day! See you soon!!

Memorial Day Weekend Special Events

Meteor Watching & Campfire at The Big Bear Discovery Center

May 23, 2014 08:00PM – May 24, 2014 02:00AM

Join the Southern California Mountains Foundation for an evening under the stars at the Big Bear Discovery Center Amphitheater on Friday, May 23rd at 8pm. Our first Star Party will kick off our campfire series held every Friday and Saturday through Labor Day.

This is sure to be an exciting evening as Comet 209P/LINEAR is predicted to shower the night sky with the most “shooting stars” North America has seen in decades. The campfire will begin at 8pm with a brief presentation about our night skies, including common constellations and stars you may see during your time in Big Bear and continue into the evening with telescopes set up in our large parking lot for public viewing.

Admission $5 Children under 5 FREE…Campers staying at Serrano Campground FREE as well

Bring blankets, chairs and warm layers and set up your own cozy spot to gaze upon the sky above. Hot chocolate, coffee, snacks and s’mores will on be on sale.

All proceeds benefit the Southern California Mountains Foundation and help us reach our mission of “Education, Conservation and Responsible Recreation on Public Lands.”

Meteor Shower Cruise on Miss Liberty

May 23, 2014 11:00PM – May 24, 2014 01:00AM

Witness the birth of the newest meteor shower in style on a cruise aboard the Miss Liberty on Big Bear Lake. In the early morning hours of May 24th, Earth will pass through a stream of dust particles left behind by Comet LINEAR. The resulting meteor shower will likely be spectacular, and Big Bear Lake is in a perfect viewing position.

The floating star party, which lasts from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., includes light hors d’oeuvres and a toast with champagne or a delicious hot coffee drink.

Big Bear StarLight Festival in the Village

May 24 & 25, 2014 | 10:00AM – 10:00PM

We’re going out of this world to start summer by blending fun in the sun with a celebration under the stars! Join our star-studded crew – the AstronomyOutreach network, Astronaut Story Musgrave, who was on the Challenger’s first flight among five other notable space missions, and other science heroes who worked on projects including the Cassini Mission to Saturn and the Curiosity Rover Mission to Mars – for the StarLight Festival, sponsored by Pepsi.

Celebrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) – the future of America’s education and job growth! – as the streets of Big Bear Village fill with stargazers of all ages.

In addition to witnessing a rare meteor shower that will result in the most dramatic display of shooting stars in more than a decade, adults and children can participate in stellar daytime and nighttime activities. From an exclusive viewing of Apollo moon rocks to 10-foot model rockets to a flight flown Challenger Space Shuttle tile and musical performances, there’s enough fun for everyone!

Opening for Jefferson Starship is The Bulldawg Blues Band. The Los Angeles based band performs a unique rock and blues revue of songs. The band’s powerful sound has taken them all across southern California, Nevada, and anywhere blues fans demand a rocking show.

The Cave is a new, intimate music venue in Big Bear that promises to bring you up close and personal with its performers. Doors open at 6pm Concert starts at 8pm. Call or visit website for ticket information.

Antique Car Club Show & Shine and Pinewood Derby at Big Bear Snowplay

May 25, 2014 | 08:00AM – 03:00PM

Lots of Fun for the Car Enthusiast and the Whole Family! Car Show and Pinewood Derby at the Big Bear Snow Play Lot. No charge for either the show cars or spectators. The Pinewood Derby is for local 5th grade students. Please call or visit website for more information.

Big Bear Lake Half Marathon and Memorial 5K Fun Run

May 25, 2014 | 08:00AM – 03:00PM

Welcome to the Big Bear Lake Half Marathon. This is road running at its finest. A scenic and challenging course full of steep up and downs, rolling hills and a two mile climb up to 7,300′ for a gorgeous run through Big Bear Lake’s most scenic neighborhoods.

Race day also includes the Memorial 5k Fun Run, a scenic and challenging course along the border of the National Forest. Both events share the same Start and Finish in The Village of Big Bear Lake.

This is an Open Air Big Bear event so you can expect a FUN start and finish in The Village of Big Bear Lake with Live Music and Local Vendors at the Lifestyle Expo.

The Big Bear Lake Half Marathon and Memorial 5k Fun Run is an official proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project! A portion of each race entry fee will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Last year we raised $1000 for the Wounded Warrior Project at the 1st Memorial 5k Fun Run. With the addition of the Half Marathon we hope to raise a lot more this year!

After a brief burst of winter weather, we are expecting slightly warmer temperatures in Big Bear for the week to come, with clear skies. Snow Summit has the sky chair and bike park open Friday-Sunday for now and the lake is open as well.

It’s that time of the year when we celebrate Mom and all she does. Several local restaurants have Mother’s Day specials this Sunday – be sure to check out the flyer below for more info.

Memorial Day is just around the corner and RS Vacations still has homes available. Join us in beautiful Big Bear Lake for the official opening of the summer season. Visit our website today and book the perfect Big Bear Cabin for your family’s holiday weekend.

Spring is in full swing here in Big Bear Lake and Snow Summit is open – Snow Summit Summer Resort, that is. Take the Sky Chair to the top for hiking, cross-country mountain biking or downhill mountain biking. Enjoy spectacular views of the Valley and Lake, see the Forest in bloom and get some great exercise too!

We will have a brief blast of winter weather Friday night through Saturday, with temps rebounding back to normal on Sunday and throughout next week. Come up and enjoy our springtime weather roller-coaster!

RS Vacations is still offering our spring special of Stay 2 Nights, Get the 3rd FREE, but there are only a few weeks left! Hurry and book your discounted stay before it’s too late! Book your Big Bear Cabin today!!